She said: "They were all very formal, short letters, and it would usually be in response to something I said in the press.

Playboy founder Hugh Hefner and Playboy bunny Holly Madison perform a scene during the filming of a commercial for "X Games IX" at the Playboy Mansion May 6, 2003 in Holmby Hills, California

"At the time I had a TV show [Holly's World] on, so I was doing all kinds of random interviews and they’d ask me my opinion on the new Girls Next Door or who he was dating. If I said anything that was slightly not to his liking he’d send me some reprimanding type of letter.

"And it just got to the point where I’d throw them away and not even look at them. There was a very creepy vibe to them. I felt like he was trying to act like he was my dad and like control every move that I made."

In a statement made on Sunday, he said: "Over the course of my life I’ve had more than my fair share of romantic relationships with wonderful women.

"Many moved on to live happy, healthy, and productive lives, and I’m pleased to say remain dear friends today. Sadly, there are a few who have chosen to rewrite history in an attempt to stay in the spotlight. I guess, as the old saying goes: You can’t win 'em all!"